Deputy dies, second critical after shooting at Spangle home
Two Spokane County officers were injured during an emergency entry at a residence in the 18700 block of South Smythe Road.
By Bianca Shevchenko ·
One Spokane County sheriff's deputy has died and a second is in critical condition after both were shot while responding to a domestic violence call. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon in the 18700 block of South Smythe Road in Spangle.
The first deputy died from his injuries Tuesday night. He is survived by his wife and two children. The second deputy remains on life support in critical condition. Authorities stated he is not expected to survive and noted that he is an organ donor, with arrangements being considered to honor his wishes.
Deputies were dispatched to the residence at approximately 2:25 p.m. to respond to a reported domestic violence shooting. An adult woman at the scene reported that she had been shot and required medical attention. Officers learned the male suspect held an active felony warrant and might possess additional weapons. They also received information that other victims could be inside the home.
By 3:15 p.m., deputies and SWAT team members approached the residence to make an emergency entry. Authorities cited concerns for the safety of the woman and possible additional victims as the reason for the entry. As they moved toward the home, shots were fired from inside, critically injuring two deputies. Other officers returned fire before moving the wounded to cover and providing medical assistance.
The woman was transported to a hospital with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening. With the suspect believed to be barricaded inside, SWAT teams from the Spokane Police Department and Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office were called in. Spokane police SWAT personnel took over the active scene, relieving the county deputies.
The Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team is handling the investigation. This includes both the initial domestic violence shooting and the homicide investigation, conducted under Washington’s officer-involved critical incident protocol. The sheriff's office released a statement expressing that staff are devastated by the loss, noting the deputies bravely moved toward danger to protect others.
The statement added that the officers heroically placed themselves in mortal danger to fulfill their oath to serve and protect the citizens of Spokane County.
